St. Vincent de Paul will move from its longtime Commercial Street location, shown here, to a space that's 2 times larger this spring. / Rachel Rausch/Post-Crescent Media

Written by

Maureen Wallenfang

Post-Crescent staff writer

The former Pick ‘n Save building at 1425 S. Commercial Street in Neenah is finally getting new life after being dark for more than 10 years.

St. Vincent de Paul bought the building and is already inside working on renovations. When ready, the non-profit organization will move its thrift store from 884 S. Commercial St., where it has been for decades, to this new space that’s more than 2 1/2 times larger.

“We’re hoping to move in in early April,” said Dan Johnson, director. “We’re out of space here. For us to be able to help more people, we need to have more space to take in more donations, create extra revenue and help more clients.”

The current store takes in about $300,000 annually. After mortgage, utilities and staff salaries, the remainder goes to provide services that include financial assistance to those in need.

Besides vouchers for merchandise, food and gas, it provides money for rent and utility assistance. Johnson said the store gave out $60,000 in aid in the Neenah-Menasha area last year.

The store will hold a fundraising event in the future to help with the necessary $350,000 renovation costs. The building is being purchased on a land contract.